OUR COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY AND COMMUNITY WELL-BEING

Since 2017, we have been committed to not only providing exceptional hospitality but also fostering sustainable practices and uplifting Communities in Kapchorwa and Kween District. 

THE ROOTS OF OUR VISION

Our vision is rooted in the belief that true sustainability comes from: 

  • taking small steps in the right direction, at least one every day;

  • learning from the indigenous lifestyle and healthy practices within the Community;

  • empowering our Community economically and in terms of well-being;

  • collaborating with native guides, tour operators and other Community stakeholders;

  • creating opportunities for exposure and learn from partners in sustainable travel.

At Home of Friends, we live by our slogan ‘Explore a green and healthy life’, which guides our daily operations and long-term goals.

Community empowerment and collective learning

Our guided tours and activities are designed to immerse visitors in the sustainable aspects of the lifestyle of Elgon communities. People learn about organic farming, bamboo basket weaving and healthy cooking practices. In a fun and engaging way. 

Our Community support programs are focused on empowerment of local youth and women:  

  • training youth in guiding, hospitality and entrepreneurship;

  • developing and promoting sustainable Community tours;

  • reinvesting revenue from our Kween hiking tours into a bamboo growing and crafts making initiative of women along the trails;

  • coaching our local tourism partners towards self-reliance, whilst creating a network of eco-conscious and Community-driven enterprises 

  • organising Community sports events to grow self-esteem, encourage unity and boost sportsmanship.

Check out our Impact Library for an impression of our Community empowerment activities so far.

Sustainable efforts in action 

At Home of Friends, our sustainability efforts are woven into all aspects of our operations, from the energy we use to the food we serve: 

  • Solar energy: All our guest rooms are powered by solar energy. 

  • Water harvesting: We are using a rainwater harvesting and pump system to ensure we make the most of the abundant rainfall in the Elgon region. Roughly 95% of the water for our daily operations is collected rain water. 

  • Elimination of plastics: We have banned plastic bottles and are replacing other single-use plastics with durable, eco-friendly alternatives. Our restaurant offers free water refills to reduce plastic waste, and to promote a healthy lifestyle. 

  • Reusing bottles: We recycle all consumed wine and liquor bottles into reusable glasses for our restaurant. 

FRESH MEALS and our kitchen garden 

Our kitchen celebrates the flavors of Mount Elgon by offering vegetarian and vegan meals made with fresh ingredients sourced from our kitchen garden and local farmers. By supporting local agriculture, we promote sustainable food systems and ensure that our guests enjoy the freshest, healthiest meals possible.

Note: We are not yet sourcing all vegetables and fruits from Kapchorwa. Due to a rearrangement of our compound our kitchen is currently relatively small. You can hold us accountable in 2025 to bring back a larger kitchen garden with more variety (and inspiration).

A homely ambiance for sustainable living

Home of Friends is more than a Guesthouse. It’s a space for connection and collaboration. We’ve created an environment where guests can come together, share ideas, and explore new ways of living healthy and sustainably, all while surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Mount Elgon. 

Ready for a greener-than-green and healthier life? Let’s move together!